Chapter five

  Dre barely made it through Everly threshold before instinctively ducking as a slipper whizzed over his head. "Whoa- What the..."

  "Where have you been and where is he!?" A furious Hana shrilled out with a flustered face.

  Dre frowned as he shut the door behind him. "He isn't here?" He asked.

  Hana threw him an exaggerated look, "Does it look like he's here!?"

  Dre's face frowned, rolling his eyes. Such a bitch. "Well, he's not with me, so you should calm down before you scare the kids."

  The sound of the children laughter and playful taunts drifting through the air.

  Hana let out a breath, doing deep meditations as she tried to reel in her frustration.

  Dre's throbbing arm brought him back to his wound. Clutching at his arm with a grimace, he bit into his cheeks.

  Hana's face went still as she watched the blood drip from his fingers and onto the floor, staining the wooden planks in a crimson puddle. Her face flashed from anger to panic.

  "What happened to you?" She asked with a jolt.

  "Um, I can explain, but I need a little favor. Promise not to yell." Dre murmured with a sheepish tone as he lifted his sleeve to reveal his wound.

  Hana's mouth gaped wide as her face turned beet red, reverting to small squeaks to keep from screaming. He could see the imagined smoke steaming from her ears as her silent screams spoke louder than ever. Closing her mouth shut, she grabbed Dre by the arm and yanked him into her personal washroom. She pushed him down on a stool and started examining the flesh wound.

  Hana stood over Dre, her fingers working diligently as she focused her kana along her palms. Dre's face went through a cycle of cringes as he felt the shell moving around within his arm.

  "Forgive me, I almost have it." Hana's soft voice murmured as her eyes stayed focus on the task.

  Her hands lit up with intense energy as she raised them and out came the shell. Placing it on the cabinet, she turned and went to work healing Dre's wound.

  Dre let out a relieve breath and raised a brow at Hana. "Ya'know I could do that part myself." He muttered. Natural healing was a perk from the totem.

  A smirk teased at her lips, "Hush up and let me care for you." She said with mirth, watching as his skin weaved back together. "I don't know what I'm going to do with you two knuckleheads. Why can't ya'll stay out of trouble?"

  "It's not like I go out there screaming for it, that's for sure." He huffed in remark.

  Hana grabbed a wet rag and started wiping the blood sticking to his skin. "Well, with how much you stay in it, my worry for you returning home grows stronger. Do you two get off on stressing me out?"

  Dre watched her face, reading the concern knitted tightly along her eyebrows. Though Hana was tough, her heart was good. She was 56, never had kids herself or been married, so Dre always wondered what made her want to foster kids. He'd been with her since he was thirteen, yet she still had many mysteries to her. He chuckled lightly remembering her walking through those brothels doors as a client yet leaving with a whole child.

  Hana's eye cheekily glanced up to him, a smirk curling her lips. "What's so funny?"

  Dre rubbed his hand through his hair as he shook his head. The small smile on his face didn't reach his eyes as he murmured, "Just thinking of simpler times."

  "Oh yeah?" Hana uttered, running the rag along his arm gently.

  Finishing wiping him down, Hana stepped over to the sink and dropped the bloodied towel into the bowl. She placed her hands along the sink as her shoulders sagged from exhaustion.

  "We need to find, Juke. Hopefully he isn't hurt or hurting anyone." Hana murmured out.

  I need to, it was a fleeting thought, but Dre pushed it to the back of his mind, then shook his head. "I think... I think um... I'm going to let Juke figure this one out alone. He knows where home is."

  Hana whirled around, wrinkles creasing her forehead. "Are you serious? You can't be, right. That boy needs us."

  "He needs to grow up." It came out a little harsh, but his emotional day has left his body weary. Though he wanted to chase him down like he'd always do, the crazy day opened his closet to his own skeletons. "I have my own problems."

  Hana gave him a worried look but settled with a simple nod. "I promised the kids I will take them to the Onijio tonight. I wouldn't hear the end of it if they missed the first night of the festival of lights. I haven't quite started our supper, so do you mind taking them for me? I mean, that's the least you can do, right?"

  Rolling his eyes, Dre aimed a toothy smirk her way. "You don't have to beg." He uttered standing to his feet. He felt all nasty and needed a quick wash up first. "I have those squirts handled. You just focus on being the house nanny, granny."

  She smacked his head playfully as he walked by.

  Dre paused then gave her a serious look, "Go easy on the kid. His mind isn't in a good place, so he needs a confident more than a mother right now."

  "I'll try," Hana assured him and Dre went exit the washroom. Hana stuck her head out the threholds and growled after the teen, "And go get my slipper."

  He rolled his eyes as he stepped into the main room, he was greeted by a shout of, "Dre!" from the kids. He chuckled at their goofy antics and made his way to get cleaned up and ready for the festival.

  ...

  The sun was soon to set, so Juke decided it was best to head on home. He had stopped by once, but didn't have the balls to face Hana then. Behind that sexy old body was a menacing scary woman. Juke shuddered comically, visualizing Hana as a demon. Now, after walking around for hours with his belly growling, it was time to face this like a man.

  I hope she lets me eat, Juke thought with a frown rubbing the crying stomach.

  Making it to Everly, Juke opened the front door but was greeted by the hard end of a slipper to his face.

  "Where have you been?" Hana screeching voice was loud, as the slipper fell to reveal her furious person.

  "Look Ms. Hana..."

  "Don't look Ms. Hana me." Hana cut the boy off as she fumed. "What did I tell you this morning?"

  "Can I explain?" Juke asked.

  Hana gave him a deep frown before she sighed. "You have five minutes." She said then turned on her heels and headed for the kitchen. The clinking of pots and pans sounded as Hana started to prepare supper.

  Hana gave Juke her attention. "So why did you break a kid nose?"

  Juke took a breath, Here it goes. He recounted the events to her, explaining how Calcilum's words got under his skin and led to the physical altercation. His arms flailed around as his emotions resurfaced to emphasis the scenes.

  Hana listened intently, with folded arms and a tight face.

  "Maybe I shouldn't have hit him like that, but he said some nasty things to me. I just... snapped." Juke shook his head as he looked at his hands.

  "And that's your problem. Why do you always have to hit first, Juke?" Hana spoke.

  "So, you're telling me you wouldn't have done the same?" Juke asked, his eyes squinting defiantly.

  Hana sighed and she shook her head, "I get that his words cut you deep. He was wrong for saying what he did, but you also were wrong for hitting him. Every situation doesn't have to be solved with anger. Both of you were in the wrong."

  "You and Dre always telling me you have my back, but when it's time to actually have it, you turn on me." Juke rolled his eyes.

  Hana's eyes softened and she relaxed her arms. "Juke, having your back means helping you become a better person. It means guiding you to make better choices, no matter how hard it is to hear it. Yeah, the little bastard might've had it coming, but there is a time and a place to handle things. You have to find better ways to handle your anger besides beating people up. Do you want people to respect you or fear you?"

  "I just want people to leave me alone." Juke huffed out dryly.

  Hana shook her head. "Pushing people away is unhealthy, Juke. It's cruel to those who care about you. Growing up means learning when to act and when to hold back. Life's tough, and you've faced more than your share of challenges. But Juke... you're not alone."

  "I hear you." Juke muffled out as he looked off.

  The woman forehead throbbed as she growled, "Damn knucklehead. At the end of the day, you lost our bet and got in trouble. So, as punishment and reconciliation for my spa day I have to cancel on tomorrow, you are responsible for cleaning the washrooms tonight and cleaning the kitchen after supper. And I don't wanna hear no back talk."

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  Juke nodded in agreement. After the tension cleared up, Juke finally realized how quiet the house was.

  "Where is everyone?" He asked her.

  "Tonight's the Onijio, first night of the festival of lights. Dre and Swazzy took the kids out for the opening." Hana answered as she tended to prepare the meal.

  The Onijio was tonight, Juke thought. His whole day was messed up that he completely forgot about the festivities. Juke looked to Hana. "Am I banned from attending the festival?"

  Hana gave him a confound look. "The only reason I'm not saying no is because I know that you'll sneak and go anyway. You just better get your chores done."

  A slick smile snuck at the corner of his mouth as he threw Hana a sly look. "You know me so well." He said as walked off and started for the washroom.

  Hana rolled her eyes at his antics and returned back to her preparations.

  ...

  Boom boom crackle

  Fireworks shot in the air exploding into a beautiful blend of colors raining in sparkles. People filled the streets of the village, their cheers and laughter blending with the rhythm beat of drums. Decorated floats paraded through, each one unique and telling the story of their past. Groups of older women performed dances as men stamped and shouted ceremonial rituals proudly. Some were entertaining the children with elemental displays of moving creatures, light a dancing flaming dragon and a slithering water serpent.

  The festival was lively and unified as the community celebrated. The festival of the lights was a long celebration, that could last from days to weeks, celebrating the return of the great spirits and the aurora. The lights didn't touch the mountain until two days, yet it was never too early to start a party.

  On a platform, an older woman stepped up to a podium and cleared her throat into a mic. Village leader Mila, with her silver braids wrapped into a huge bun, was a proud leader.

  "Good people of Ezico village. I hope you're enjoying our annual Onijio, kicking off the festival of the lights." Her voice was strong, as the villagers let out loud cheers. "Every faithful moon, the magnificent spirits bless our lands with an array of lights, the Tuzlani. Once these lights touch the mountain peak a change is to come to us. It is also a time when we remember the spirits we've lost along our journeys. Their guidance from the heavens will continue to lead our people in the ways of our ancestors."

  She paused as she gave her congregation a proud look. For 20 years, she has been their leader and for 20 years she has ensured their safety and progression.

  "Now, let's enjoy our Onijio and commence the festival." Mila cheered and the crowd turned up the party.

  Mila marched from the platform, her heels tapping the ground as she made her way to a small building. She didn't need any directions; she could feel the tension through the walls. Opening the door, her sights scanned the room, taking in the various aspects of her family. A bruised Calcilum lounged back against a couch, the bruises spreading along his face like ink to water. His mother, Heela, hovered over him, rubbing gentle circles along his back as if to ease his pain. His father, Chief Meek Rye, sat in a rigid chair, his arms crossed and his face tight like stone.

  At a table, Haethena sat alone, her arms folded and her crossed legs bouncing with irritation.

  Mila closed the door behind her with a soft click. "Alright we shall make this quick," The Village leader cleared her throat commanding the room to her. "I have another speech to give in an hour."

  Heela was the first to turn, her voice sharp. "Your grandson was assaulted today."

  "What?" Mila's breath caught in her chest, like a sudden punch. Her eyes jumped on Calcilum battered form, feeling a twinge of anger to brew.

  Heela rubbed Calilum's arm with such love and care, "A boy attacked Calcilum at school today. The healers had to mend his broken nose."

  Mila exhaled, placing her hands on her hips. "And how did you handle it?"

  "We haven't handled it yet." Heela's eyes grew tight as she glared over at her husband. "I want Meek to arrest this criminal, yet he refuses. We've demanded a meeting with the school leader tomorrow." Heela answered.

  Mila gave Mr. Rye, her son and chief of the patrol, a pointed stare. "Well, Meek? You're just sitting here all calm and collected while your son is contused beyond recognition."

  Chief Rye let growl, "Well, mother. I'm more disappointed that my son was so weak to allow it to happen."

  "How could you sit there and say that?" Heela's raw voice screeched out, her eyes bulging as her face flustered in anger. "He is your son, not some warrior in your patrol brigade."

  Chief Rye sat up in his seat, giving his wife and son his attention. He loved his family dearly. His kids were his pride and joy, yet their short comings tested at the man's patience. "At the end of the day, Heela, Calcilum is a man. My son. Did you even try to block?"

  Calcilum's shoulders tensed, his fist curling as his eyes fell to his lap. His father's disappointment stung worse than the brusies, "I-"

  "Enough, Meek. Who did this to you, boy?" Mila asked Calcilum.

  The boy hesitated for a second, then sighed and answered, "It was the Okoyeshi boy."

  Mila let out an interested hum, as something flickered in her eyes. "The Okoyeshi boy? He's gaining quite a reputation I've been hearing."

  Meek's face crinkled with confusion, as he leaned in his seat rubbing his chin, "I've rarely heard of the kid other than his past story. The Okoyeshi was a strong clan."

  Haethena slammed her hands on the wood, sending a loud whack to gather the room's attention. "That's exactly why you shouldn't judge a book by its cover." She snapped. "Juke is not a tyrant."

  Calcilum slit his eyes at Haethena as he clenched his fist. "You'll say anything to free your little boytoy."

  "I understand this situation is bad, but I cannot sit here and let you put all of the blame on Juke." Haethena huffed out from her seat. Her eyes were slit in irritation while her teeth grinded. "Calcilum was bullying the boy, until he retaliated. We all know how slick his mouth can get."

  "You traitor," Calcilum growled out, pointing a finger dangerously at Haethena. His hand trembled.

  Haethena eyes rolled, already tired of this conversation.

  "Haethena Rye, you take that back. This is your brother, and we do not turn our back on our family." Mrs. Rye said with rigid shoulders and daggered eyes trained on her daughter.

  Haethena eyes daggered defiant. "Funny. I don't hear you telling him that when he's the antagonizer."

  "Everyone, silence at once." Mila booming voice quieted the room. "Now, Meek... your wife is right. We are a family, but more importantly, we are a Rye. We are rational people and will handle this issue as such. This will not divide us."

  Meek let out a deep breath, tapping his finger against his knee.

  Mila's eye bounced from everyone the room. "Tomorrow, this matter will be handled so that it does not happen again."

  "Well, if this family meeting is over, I'm going to go enjoy the festival." Haethena , loudly pushing her seat back as she stood to her feet. She stepped over to Mila and gave her grandmother a hug, then went out to the festival.

  Mila watched her leave with mild amusement.

  Meek let out a huff as he muttered, "That girl's going to be the death of me."

  Calcilum fumed in his seat, anger rattling his body as his nails dug into the meat of his thighs. This wasn't over for Juke. Not by a long shot. There were always other ways to break a person.

  ...

  Juke made his way through the crowd wearing the traditional garb of a brightly color dress and trousers. His locs hung loose around his shoulders and an animal mask sat on his head. A big smile graced his face as he watched all of the excitement around him.

  Making his way through the crowd, he spotted the Everly bunch. They were dressed in bright attires with mask. He approached the crew with a smirk.

  "Juke!" The younger kids cheered as they surrounded him, attacking him with hugs. The teen laughed, playing with the children for a second before he looked to his friends.

  The juvies however weren't as pleased, as they gave him sour scowls. Juke gave his neck an embarrassed scratch as he gave them an apologetic look. He wasn't really good at apologizing, but for his friends he finds it easy to say it. He just says it a little too much.

  "Look, guys. I'm-"

  "Save it," Swazzy cut in. "It won't be your last time." She sniped to the boy.

  A grin spread on Juke's face. "Don't be like that, Sway." He feigned dramatic as he hugged on her and tried to plant wet kisses against her cheeks. The girl flailed as she pushed against Juke.

  "Boy stop," Swazzy pushed him off with a giggle, and he backed off with a smirk.

  Juke's eyes roamed to Dre, knowing he owed him an apology more than anybody. He wasn't much of an apologetic person, finding it truly hard to form those meaningful words. Dre picked up on his troubled face and lifted his fist to Juke with an earnest smile.

  "We're good, brotha." Dre muttered.

  Juke's face lit up with such youthful grace and he connected his fist with Dre's in a fist bump.

  The group entertained themselves as the foster kids enjoyed the festival amenities. The fun went on for a while, before Juke caught sight of Haethena off to the side clapping along with the music.

  His body grew warm as he watched her, mesmerized. He tapped Dre's arm and told him, "I'll be right back."

  Dre lifted a brow, following his line of vision, before giving Juke an understood look. The two dapped it up then Juke was off.

  He made his way over until he stood to Haethena's side as he bobbed to the beats. "So, um... Do you still wanna hang?" He asked her.

  She side-eyed him with a hint of mischief glint, "I shouldn't be talking to you."

  Juke scratched his cheeks slightly embarrassed as he coiled back, "Oh... I mean, I get it."

  A light smile curled her lips. The drums continued the hype tune as fireworks lit the sky. The lights mirrored in Haethena's eyes making them sparkle as the colors set her skin to glow. Juke knew he'd royally screwed up with her, but man was she breath taking.

  "The fireworks are beautiful," She started, never taking her eyes from the sky. "I know somewhere where they really shine though." Haethena looked over to Juke, holding her hand out for him.

  Is she giving me a chance? Juke's cheeks grew warm as he blushed, then grabbed her hand. It was soft and warm.

  Haethena pulled him along and away from the crowd and buildings. They continued until they were out in a grassy field. The starry sky and the colorful fireworks were breathtaking without the extra lighting. The array of colors exploding painted the field. Juke hadn't realized he was stuck starring until Haethena's giggle woke him up.

  "I told you it was beautiful." She spoke as she went to lie in the grass.

  So are you, Juke thought, laying down beside her.

  The two watched the vibrant colors in peaceful silence, lying on their backs. Juke looked over to Haethena, then bit into his lip. "Look, I'm not going to apologize for hitting your brother."

  "I wouldn't expect you to. I don't blame you actually." Haethena's voice was soft as she spoke. "Calcilum has always had the tendency to take things too far... running his mouth more than he needs to. He can be spiteful and snobby when he wants, but he's still my brother. He is a reasonable kid sometimes, he's just a little messed up. Something I can say you two share in common." Haethena gave Juke a cheeky smile.

  Juke let out a chuckle, "I am messed up ain't it?"

  "Just a little bit," Haethena answered shrugging her shoulders. "However, hiding under all of that tough bravado, I can see there is a person with a good heart. You are yourself no matter what, and that is very admirable."

  Juke smiled at the compliment. "You've barely talked to me before. Why now?"

  A thoughtful look flashed on Haethena's face as she gathered her words, "I've always watched you and your friends from afar, enjoying your freedom. I may be far from a saint myself, but there is always a spotlight on me. A way my mother perceive I should lead my life... how my father hover over us. Sometimes it's easier to just pretend being perfect makes me happy. Plus, if I'm honest, the bad boy thing really turns me on."

  A light chuckle rumbled from Juke's chest before his face took on a forlorn stare. "Honestly.... I'm not trying to be a bad boy. I'm just surviving how I have to," Juke's voice was soft as he opened up.

  "I understand," Haethena gave him a sweet smile.

  Juke turned his head to peer at Haethena. The nights rays and fireworks sent a kaleidoscope of colors to glow on her frame. Like a sexy, hot goddess. "And you shouldn't give a damn what your parents think. It's your life... you have to live it how you want." He murmured.

  "You might be right," Haethena nodded her head. She gave Juke a longing look as she rubbed at her thigh seductively. "Well, you have me out here all alone. What is it you would like to do?"

  Juke skin boiled as he grew hard in his trousers. You know what I want to do, he thought as he scooted, closing the distance between them.

  Juke was slightly surprised as her soft lips landed on his, but he soon leaned into the warm kiss. Her hands wrapped around his shoulders and pulled him over until he was hovering over her body.

  Juke looked down at her, her skin flustered and hot. I want this more than anything, but I'd be lying if I said I wasn't nervous. I ain't no virgin, but what if I mess up. She is older and has more experience, so I've heard. I can't embarrass myself.

  A finger poked him in the forehead, and he winced with a grimace.

  "You're thinking too loud," Haethena said, then grabbed his face lovingly, "Just make yourself feel good, then make me feel good."

  Juke gave her a dimpled grin, then leaned down to kiss her.

  The teens enjoyed the rest of the night in teenage coital bliss as the vibrant fireworks illuminated the background.